The mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo announced plans to create the first official refugee camp in the country’s capital.

Thousands of refugees seek asylum in Paris. Many are homeless and face challenges navigating the complexity of administration, registration and confusion that social and cultural differences can bring.

The decision to accommodate the hundreds of asylum seekers flocking to Paris, fleeing turmoil in Syria and other countries, came after Hidalgo learned that over 800 refugees were living in a makeshift settlement just north of Paris.

Due to health concerns police and officials often clear out makeshift settlements in cities like Paris that lack designated refugee camps.

However, providing a structured place for refugees can help both asylum seekers and cities handle the influx of refugees. Not investing in more secure settlements is similar to turning a blind eye to the continuing plight of refugees. Refugees will need more support in the coming months, not less. This is why Paris’ decision to acknowledge the desperate need for refugee accommodation should be applauded.

The camp will open within four to six weeks, according to Hidalgo's statement in a press conference. She also wants to help those who come with nothing.

“I hope it will provide both a welcome centre, to evaluate these people’s situations, and also a site that allows the accommodation of those arriving who have nothing,” Hidalgo said.

Beds, food, shelter, medical care, and clothing will all be provided for homeless asylum seekers at the new refugee camp which will be made of modular cabins (influenced by the cabins MSF set up in Grande-Synthe, France.)

“Paris will not stand by and do nothing as the Mediterranean becomes a graveyard of refugees,” said Hidalgo.

Powerful words, after news spread this week that more than 700 refugees are suspected to have drowned off the coast of Italy while trying to seek refuge in Europe.

In the coming months, if the world doesn’t come together to accommodate the growing number of refugees -- in a political, social, and global manner -- horror stories like the drownings that occurred this week will only continue.

However, by taking action to welcome and support the world’s largest number of refugees since World War II, cities like Paris act as a guide for others.


Would you support your Mayor in an act like that of Anne Hidalgo? Share your thoughts in the comments below. 

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